• Mon. Oct 13th, 2025

Estero, Florida Relocation Guide

Estero, Florida

Moving to Estero, Florida: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Estero, Florida? This upscale Lee County village offers premium shopping, affluent neighborhoods, and convenient location between Fort Myers and Naples. With approximately 38,500 residents in 2025, Estero combines resort-style living with easy access to Southwest Florida’s beaches and amenities.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Estero:

Estero’s 2025 population is approximately 38,500 residents in this recently incorporated village that became Florida’s newest municipality in 2014. The median age is 65.4 years, reflecting strong appeal to retirees and affluent empty-nesters. The population is approximately 89% White, 8% Hispanic, creating a predominantly affluent retirement community. Estero features upscale master-planned developments including Bella Terra, Coconut Point, and The Brooks, along with numerous gated golf communities. The village sits along U.S. Highway 41 between Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, with Estero Bay and the Gulf Coast providing natural beauty. Historic sites include the Koreshan State Historic Site, preserving the former utopian community that founded the area in the early 1900s.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Estero:

Estero ranks among Southwest Florida’s most affluent communities. Median home values range from $450,000 to $600,000 in 2025, with luxury golf course properties and gated communities commanding significantly higher prices. The median household income is approximately $100,500, with many retirees bringing substantial assets. Rental properties average $2,300 to $3,000 monthly. Florida’s lack of state income tax benefits residents, particularly retirees. Overall cost of living reflects the village’s upscale character, premium shopping at Coconut Point and Miromar Outlets, and resort-style amenities. Estero attracts affluent retirees seeking luxury Southwest Florida lifestyle with golf, shopping, and Gulf Coast access without Naples-level pricing.

Economy and Job Market:

Estero’s economy centers on retail, hospitality, healthcare, and service sectors. Major employers include Coconut Point mall, Miromar Outlets, Hertz Corporation headquarters, and various healthcare facilities. The village’s retail concentration along U.S. 41 creates significant service and retail employment. Florida Gulf Coast University in nearby Fort Myers employs many area residents. Some residents work at Southwest Florida International Airport or in Fort Myers’ professional services. Many Estero residents are retirees, though the community includes professionals commuting throughout Lee County. The village’s location between Fort Myers and Naples provides access to both metropolitan areas. Healthcare and retail dominate local employment sectors.

Education:

The Lee County School District serves Estero students with schools including Estero High School, Three Oaks Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district operates throughout Lee County with various program offerings. Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers offers comprehensive four-year programs and has become a significant regional institution. Florida SouthWestern State College provides associate degrees and workforce training. The area’s educational infrastructure adequately serves families, though Estero’s demographics skew heavily toward retirees. Private schools operate throughout Lee County for families seeking alternatives.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Estero offers premium shopping at Coconut Point mall and Miromar Outlets, creating a retail destination for Southwest Florida. The village maintains parks including Estero Community Park and Koreshan State Historic Site, preserving the utopian community’s buildings and grounds. Residents enjoy numerous golf courses throughout the community’s many country clubs. Mound Key Archaeological State Park, accessible only by boat, preserves ancient Calusa Indian shell mounds in Estero Bay. The village’s location provides easy access to Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, and Naples beaches. Dining options range from casual to upscale throughout the U.S. 41 corridor. The subtropical climate and resort-style communities create a vacation-like atmosphere year-round. Many communities feature clubhouses, pools, fitness centers, and organized activities.

Healthcare and Services:

Estero residents access comprehensive healthcare through Lee Health Coconut Point providing outpatient services, Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, and NCH Healthcare System in Naples. Numerous medical offices, urgent care centers, and specialty practices serve the affluent retirement population. The region’s healthcare infrastructure is excellent, with major hospitals and specialized care throughout Lee County. The concentration of retirees ensures abundant healthcare providers and services.

Transportation:

Estero benefits from U.S. Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) as the primary north-south corridor, with Interstate 75 accessible minutes east via Corkscrew Road or Alico Road. Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers is approximately 15 minutes north. LeeTran operates limited bus service through Estero. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with typical commute times ranging 15-25 minutes to Fort Myers or Bonita Springs.

Conclusion:

Moving to Estero in 2025 offers upscale retirement living with premium shopping, golf course communities, and strategic location in Southwest Florida. The village’s affluent character, resort amenities, and proximity to beaches make it ideal for retirees and professionals seeking luxury lifestyle between Fort Myers and Naples.

Bella Terra Neighborhood, Estero, Florida • by Garrett • licensed under CC BY 3.0